Sunday Brunch’s absent presenter Tim Lovejoy reveals he’s not been able to shower after back injury while stand-in Johnny Vegas pleads for his return

Tim appeared via video link on today's episode to give an update on his recovery

By BETH ALLCOCK, Showbiz Reporter

19th February 2017,1:18 pm

Updated: 19th February 2017,2:46 pm

SUNDAY Brunch’s Tim Lovejoy revealed the injury which has temporarily forced him from his presenting role on the Channel 4 show has also meant he hasn’t been able to SHOWER since returning from hospital a fortnight ago.

The lovable – yet potentially pongy – host has been replaced by controversial comedian Johnny Vegas and during their live chat via video link the funnyman pleaded for him to return.

Simon then asked if he’d be back next week to which he replied “hopefully”.

This prompted Johnny – who has divided viewers during the past two episodes – to chip in and say: “Please please!” before joking the show’s legal team had been on-edge.

Simon then quipped: “I’ve aged 10 years in the last two weeks.”

Today Channel 4 viewers were again left divided by Johnny ‘s hosting efforts.

Last week, the funnyman, 46, replaced Tim and while he left some fans in hysterics with a series of live TV fails, others weren’t impressed with his jokes – claiming they weren’t even funny.

During today’s three-hour show he admitted to struggling reading the cue cards before apologising for seeming to “belittle” the foodie credentials of a kebab.

Yet his second show didn’t leave fans any clearer on their views.

One took to Twitter to write: “Vegas has revitalised the show, proving you need to change things significantly, he’s funny but he also asks great questions.”

Another upbeat viewer posted: “Love Johnny presenting the show with Simon, he’s great,” while a third added: “When your still feeling poorly but watching @SundayBrunchC4 to be cheered up for @JohnnyVegasReal.”

PAL'S DESPAIR

'big up'

Meanwhile show fans flooded Twitter with fury earlier in the episode when cricketing legend David Gower prompted disgust after he LICKED his fingers after touching raw chicken during a cooking segment.

The former England captain sparked an outrage on comments on Twitter after he couldn’t resist a taste of the marinade which coated his hands.